In mitigation it was said that Leach had been working at the butchers for three years and had been correctly trained in how to use the blade.

Solicitor Anthony Shimmin appearing for Graham added that the band saw in question had since been scrapped and replaced. It was added that Graham, a butcher for 32 years, had an excellent safety record.

Shimmin said: "This is a matter which has caused Mr Graham and everyone else concerned a great deal of distress," he said.